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"Miracle Mets" Pitcher Who Helped Deliver 1969 World Series Title Dies at 83

Jerry Koosman, the legendary southpaw starter who capped the Mets’ stunning 1969 World Series run with a pivotal Game 5 win, has died.

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Jerry Koosman, the legendary southpaw starter who capped the Mets' stunning 1969 World Series run with a pivotal Game 5 win, has died. He was 83.

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Koosman is one of just three Mets pitchers to surpass 100 wins and ranks third on the franchise's all-time leaderboard in that category.

Koosman spent 12 seasons with the Mets, who retired his No. 36 jersey in 2021.

"We are saddened to share the news that Jerry Koosman has passed away. We send our thoughts and prayers to his family," the team

Koosman battled multiple illnesses leading up to his death.

His tenure with the Mets was one marked by excellence.

Alongside Hall of Fame pitcher Tom Seaver, Koosman formed a formidable one-two punch at the top of the "Miracle Mets" rotation, spurring their championship season in 1969.

He finished his Mets career with a 3.09 ERA across 346 starts.

Koosman earned back-to-back All-Star selections in 1968 and 1969.

The

Mets Owner Honors Franchise Legend

Mets owner Steve Cohen on Sunday released a ">statement on his death:

"Kooz was one of the greatest pitchers in team history and a beloved member of the Mets family. The 1969 Miracle Mets were filled with heroes, and the special southpaw from Appleton, Minnesota, was central to their success.

"He was a fierce competitor on the field, and respected teammate in the clubhouse, he continued. "His legendary performance in the World Series helped the Mets secure their first Championship in team history.

"On behalf of the entire Mets organization, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Jerry's family, friends, former teammates and all who loved him," the statement read.

Koosman pitched 19 seasons in the Majors and finished with 222 career wins. In addition to the Mets, Koosman played for the Twins, White Sox and Phillies.

"Jerry Koosman was a hero of my childhood self, the great pitcher in the shadow of the GOAT Tom Seaver," Lou DiBella wrote. "I have always believed that he was a hall of fame caliber pitcher. Godspeed, Kooz. Thanks for the memories.

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